Renault Nissan Alliance Expands to New Zealand

The push for electrification by French-Japanese Renault Nissan alliance got another boost over the weekend, as the two carmakers announced they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the city of Wellington in New Zealand. This new agreement pushes the number of regions where the alliance is present to over 60, setting the stage for the successful launch of the Nissan Leaf worldwide.

"Today, Nissan is proud to partner with the Wellington City Council through the signing of this MOU," John Manley, Nissan New Zealand managing director said in a statement.

"Technology for zero emissions mobility is a reality and we are prepared to proactively explore ways to bring this technology to New Zealand with collaboration from the Wellington administration. "

As part of the agreement, both parties will work to identify areas and opportunities to promote EV use. This includes infrastructure, promotion and education of future EV owners.

"The City of Wellington is looking at the benefits of introducing and expanding electric vehicle technology," Wellington mayor Kerry Prendergast added. "This MOU formalizes discussions with the Nissan Motor Company which is among the global leaders in the development of electric vehicles and demonstrates our commitment to supporting electric vehicle technologies."

As said, so far, the alliance has signed similar MoUs with over 60 regions and companies from Japan, the US, Europe, Asia and Australia. Although, in the beginning, the MOU will set the stage for the Leaf, Renault's future line of electric vehicles will also benefit from the agreements.